"Heaven knows," answered Gertrude. "He may return to dinner, or he may not do so. Will you stay with us for the night?"
"No, no; I must home to my wife. I am sorry to miss him. Let him know that Cecil Stark has escaped from the War Prison. This will quicken his wits as it has quickened mine. I have watchers set round about Holne. And also at Dartmouth. And yet there is that in me which begets a great indifference now. It is vain to fight the young, for Time is on their side."
"You must be brave, dear Mr. Malherb."
Miss Norcot put a light hand upon his arm.
"You can touch me," he said, "knowing what you know?"
"Indeed, yes. You have atoned."
He shook his head, and the clergyman spoke.
"Who shall fling the first stone, my dear sir? Who shall hale you before your outraged country?"
Malherb stared at him, as a man who sees an unpleasant insect suddenly where before there was none. Then his expression changed.
"You say well. Who shall? There is but one man. His duty it is, and he hangs back."